Shanahan says RG3 will start Redskins opener

The bottom line is that Griffin will start, making a remarkably expedited return for last year’s NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. It’s been only eight months since Andrews repaired two ligaments in Griffin’s knee a few days after the Redskins‘ playoff loss to the Seattle Seahawks in January.

Rehabbing throughout the offseason with an “all in for Week 1” mantra, Griffin didn’t miss a day of training camp, His practice snaps were limited and he wasn’t allowed to play in a preseason game. He was frustrated about not being allowed to do more, but Shanahan maintained it was all done with an eye on the regular season.

“With how good he looked when I showed back up here in April, my mindset was obviously I need to be ready, but I also expected him to be ready because he’s looked good from the moment I saw him,” backup Kirk Cousins said. “He just keeps getting stronger and stronger, and, as you can see, he’s worked his tail off.”

Teammates said Griffin has moved especially well in practice the last week or so.

Notes: S Brandon Meriweather, the other starter recovering from reconstructive knee surgery, was sore Monday and did not practice. … NT Barry Cofield said he restructured his contract in the last few days to help the team get under the salary cap. … As expected, fourth-string QB Pat White will spend the week impersonating Philadelphia QB Michael Vick in practice. … Griffin and LT Trent Williams were voted offensive captains for the season. LB London Fletcher and Cofield were chosen the defensive captains. The special teams captain, which can change game by game during the first half of the season, will be S Reed Doughty for the opener.